How many courses can you think of that contain zero text? Probably none. Text is one of the primary ways we convey information in e-learning. With that in mind, let’s review some basic elements of typography for when you’re formatting the text in your next course.
Font Style
It’s important to remember that specific fonts work better than others for certain topics or subjects. A gamified e-learning module for teens on a lighthearted subject could make use of a whimsical handwritten font, but that same font would not work as well for serious finance-themed content. Your font style should match your subject matter. If you’re unsure which fonts work with your subject matter, do a keyword search and look at images related to your topic to see what types of fonts commonly crop up.
If you’re going to mix multiple font styles, it’s important that they enhance each other. Follow these simple guidelines for mixing and matching.
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Line Spacing
Line spacing is important, which is why Storyline 360 offers you the option to set specific line spacing. There’s no need to leave the default spacing as is; you have the flexibility to customize down to the pixel. Fine-tune your line spacing to ensure everything is spaced evenly and consistently, with a nice amount of white space all around.
Font Size
This is a straightforward point, but one that’s especially important. Make sure that all your course text is large enough for learners to read easily. Remember that when something is written in bigger letters, it stands out and helps learners take notice, so be sure to put important information in larger letters (in moderation, of course!).
Alignment
Those with a keen eye for design can spot alignment issues from a mile away. An easy way to help solve your alignment issues is to use grids and guides in your designs to ensure your text is lined up.
Another important tip is to remember that left-aligned text is much easier to read than centered text. Now, it’s usually no biggie for learners to scan a center-aligned photo caption or button text and get what it means, but anything more than a single sentence, such as paragraphs or bodies of text, should be left-aligned in your courses.
You should also try to stick with one type of alignment and be consistent with it throughout your design.
Keep these important tips in mind the next time you choose fonts and add type to your e-learning designs. Typography has a big impact on how polished and professional the final output will look.
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Published 10 years ago
Version 1.0
